TV Debate #CAPACITY4EU: Local and regional development in the context of European integration

The Institut für Europäische Politik (IEP) based in Berlin, in cooperation with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) and the Institute for Strategic Initiatives (IPIS), organized a televised debate on the NordNews.md platform. This debate was organized as part of the project “Civil Society for EU Integration – CAPACITY4EU”.

Moderated by journalist Dumitru Pelin, the discussion featured guests who explored the impact of European integration on local and regional development, as well as the economic opportunities it creates for the Republic of Moldova.

Below are the key statements from the speakers:

Adrian Ermurachi, Co-Executive Director of IPRE: “The pre-accession process primarily focuses on resources, job creation, investment opportunities, and increasing credibility with partners interested in investing in the Republic of Moldova. During this process, the opportunities offered by the European Union to both national and local public authorities, as well as economic agents, are expected to deliver noticeable results compared to what we have had in the past. Our new status and the start of negotiations in 2025 will provide additional tools, such as technical assistance programs, investment funds, and cooperation initiatives with partners outside the European Union. Thus, aligning our economic model and strengthening the business environment are essential steps towards meeting European Union standards. The timeline proposed by policymakers, targeting Moldova’s full accession to the European Union by 2030, is ambitious but achievable, provided the process is implemented effectively. “2

Maria Prisacari, Director of the Northern Regional Development Agency: “Regional development policy, including the local component, is the responsibility of the Government of the Republic of Moldova, with contributions from both local and central public authorities. In recent years, legislative and strategic adjustments have been implemented, with the support from development partners, to align with the EU acquis. The National Strategy for Regional and Local Development has shifted its focus toward improving competitiveness, moving beyond merely reducing disparities. Economic growth, job creation, and adequate infrastructure are essential for local communities striving to align with European Union standards. Cross-border and transnational programs funded by the European Union play a big role in supporting infrastructure projects, as well as building local capacities and competencies. At the national level, policies have been developed for six growth pole cities, with dedicated programs currently in the intermediate stage of implementation. Regional development is not just about infrastructure; it also involves social inclusion and combined economic and social development.”

Dorina Margine, Deputy Administrator of the “Bălți” Free Economic Zone: “If we analyze the structure of investments made in the Bălți Free Economic Zone, we see that over $320 million has been invested to date, with more than 80% originating from European Union countries such as Germany, Austria, France, and Italy. By aligning our policies with European standards, improving infrastructure, and creating stronger connections between states, we create greater opportunities to attract additional investment projects to the Republic of Moldova. To stimulate investments, a range of tax incentives has already been implemented. A concrete example is the construction of a second factory by a foreign company in Subzone 3, located at the aerodrome in the north of the country. In this context, we received support from the Northern Regional Development Agency (ADR Nord) for utility connections, which facilitated the expansion of the company already established in Moldova.”

You can watch the full debate recording here.

This debate was part of the project  “Civil Society for EU Integration – CAPACITY4EU” implemented by the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) in partnership with the Institut für Europäische Politik (IEP) from Berlin and the Institute for Strategic Initiatives (IPIS).